Psalm Reflection: Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle B)

“The Lord protects the resident alien, comes to the aid of the orphan and the widow, but thwarts the way of the wicked.” - Psalm 146:9

Sometimes I wonder, “if Jesus walked the earth today like He did 2000 years ago, would I recognize Him? Would He call me as a disciple or call me out as a Pharisee?” Jesus’ ministry is riddled with encounters with the marginalized of society, and criticism toward the hypocrisy of the “religious” people He encountered. Are you as a believer allowing yourself to be set apart, or marginalized from what is popular or easy so as to better encounter Jesus? Or do you struggle in practicing what you preach? Jesus doesn’t expect us to be perfect, but for those of us who know the truth of who He is, we bear the responsibility of sharing that message in both our words and in the way we live it out. Who are the marginalized in your life, your family, your school, your workplace, your community or your church? Who are the people Jesus needs to come to the most in your life, and how can you let Him use you to do it? Stepping out of our comfort zone is not easy in a world that preaches comfort as gospel, but it is a necessity for those who seek to authentically live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This week, talk to someone you normally wouldn’t talk to about Jesus. Share your testimony of what God has done in your life, listen to their story, ask them how you can pray for them and pray right then and there. I guarantee that you will see Jesus in that conversation. We are praying for you, be bold.

See you in the Eucharist!